2004 BMW 545 vs. 1981 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2004 BMW 545 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 BMW 545 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW 545 (325 HP) has 266 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW 545 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 545 weights approximately 860 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 BMW 545 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2004 BMW 545. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Volkswagen Passat, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2004 BMW 545 (450 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 350 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 BMW 545 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
2004 BMW 545 | 1981 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 545 | Passat |
Year Released | 2004 | 1981 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4398 cc | 1295 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 325 HP | 59 HP |
Torque | 450 Nm | 100 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1800 kg | 940 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1390 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2560 mm |